Cattolica Aquarium
Adriatic's largest aquarium with sharks, penguins, otters, and dinosaurs. A fun, educational marine adventure for all ages.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Cattolica Aquarium
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Adriatic's largest aquarium with sharks, penguins, otters, and dinosaurs. A fun, educational marine adventure for all ages.
"Ideal trip for families with dinosaurs, otters, and massive, scary sharks!"
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Save money & time! Buying online is cheaper and avoids long queues.
☀️ Avoid Summer Midday
It gets very hot. Seek shade early or visit in cooler months.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shark Encounter
Shark Tank
Witness massive and awe-inspiring sharks, the undeniable main attraction. Their presence is both thrilling and a little scary!

Penguin and Otter Playtime
Penguin and Otter Exhibits
Delight in the playful antics of friendly penguins and adorable otters. Their interactions are a joy for all ages.

Dinosaur World
Dinosaur Area
Step back in time with impressive dinosaur exhibits, adding an extra layer of adventure beyond the marine life.

Jellyfish Wonders
Jellyfish Exhibit
Be mesmerized by the ethereal beauty and graceful movements of various jellyfish species.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets Online for Savings
Summer Heat Advisory
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Save money & time! Buying online is cheaper and avoids long queues.
☀️ Avoid Summer Midday
It gets very hot. Seek shade early or visit in cooler months.
🐧 Penguin Feeding Fun
Check feeding times for penguins and otters – a highlight for kids!
🦖 Dino Adventure
Explore the dinosaur area for an extra dose of prehistoric fun.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Save money & time! Buying online is cheaper and avoids long queues.
☀️ Avoid Summer Midday
It gets very hot. Seek shade early or visit in cooler months.
🐧 Penguin Feeding Fun
Check feeding times for penguins and otters – a highlight for kids!
🦖 Dino Adventure
Explore the dinosaur area for an extra dose of prehistoric fun.
📸 Capture the Magic
Great photo ops! Don't forget your camera for vibrant marine life.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the Cattolica Aquarium to be a good program, especially for families, with highlights like the sharks, penguins, and dinosaurs. While some found it 'not bad, but not that good,' the reasonable prices and variety of attractions are often praised. The main drawbacks mentioned are the intense heat and difficulty finding shaded picnic spots during summer.
"Good program if it's raining.
The aquarium wasn't bad at all, it just wasn't that good.
The sooner you buy tickets online, the cheaper. Definitely buy tickets online, because then you don't have to wait 30+ minutes in the queue.
The shark are the main attraction and you'll understand why, they're massive and scary 😂 ideal trip for families as there are also dinosaurs, otters etc."
Kateřina Burgetová
"We had a wonderful day but it was very very hot and it was difficult to find shady spots to picnic if you weren’t actually eating at the restaurant or bar as all of the picnic benches in the shade got snatched up immediately! More shaded areas would really make a difference for this otherwise great attraction, especially in the dinosaur world! I would go again, but not in summer!"
Elissa Pearson
"The prices are very reasonable, and all the animals are adorable. The penguins were so friendly, and the staff was incredibly helpful. Highly recommend!"
Miklós Fekete
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cattolica Aquarium is located in Cattolica, near Rimini. If you're traveling by car, there's parking available. Public transport options might include local buses from Rimini or nearby towns. Many visitors combine a trip to the aquarium with exploring the Adriatic coast.
Yes, local buses often serve the Cattolica area, making it accessible from Rimini and other coastal towns. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Driving is a convenient option, and parking is typically available. Consider traffic, especially during peak summer season.
If traveling from Garda, driving is likely the most direct route. The journey will take a few hours, so plan accordingly.
Yes, Cattolica itself has a long beach, and Rimini is a popular nearby destination with various attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Prices can vary, but buying tickets online in advance is recommended as it's cheaper than purchasing at the gate.
You can purchase tickets directly from the official Cattolica Aquarium website. This is the best way to secure your entry and often get better prices.
It's highly recommended to book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues and potentially save money.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website for the most current information, especially regarding last entry times for different sections.
While specific discounts aren't detailed, purchasing tickets online in advance is consistently mentioned as a way to get cheaper prices.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The aquarium features a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, penguins, otters, and jellyfish. It also boasts a Dinosaur World and reptile exhibits.
Absolutely! It's very suitable for children, with interactive exhibits, friendly animals like penguins, and the exciting Dinosaur World.
Visiting on weekdays during the morning or during the off-season (spring or autumn) will generally mean fewer crowds.
Yes, there are scheduled feeding times for animals like sharks, stingrays, penguins, and otters, which are a popular highlight.
Comfortable shoes are a must for walking. If visiting in summer, consider bringing water and sun protection, though shaded areas can be limited.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant and bar on-site. However, picnic benches in shaded areas can be highly sought after, especially in summer.
You can bring your own food, but finding shaded spots for a picnic can be challenging during peak times.
Cattolica offers various restaurants and cafes. You can find options both within the aquarium complex and in the surrounding town.
While specific prices aren't detailed, visitors mention that picnic benches in the shade are quickly taken, suggesting on-site dining might be a common choice.
Information on specific dietary options is not readily available. It's advisable to check with the aquarium directly or explore local restaurants in Cattolica for diverse choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed, and many visitors share their stunning photos online. Be mindful of any specific restrictions in certain areas.
The shark tank, penguin exhibits, and jellyfish displays offer fantastic photo opportunities. The vibrant colors and diverse species make for memorable shots.
It's generally best to avoid flash photography, especially around sensitive marine life, as it can disturb the animals. Check for posted signs.
While not explicitly stated, it's always wise to be respectful of the animals and other visitors. Avoid intrusive photography.
A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial for indoor exhibits. A smartphone camera can also capture great shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To ensure a comfortable experience, consider booking tickets online to save time and money. If visiting during summer, be prepared for the heat and try to secure shaded spots early for breaks. The aquarium's variety of exhibits ensures there's something to capture every child's imagination.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during the off-peak seasons (spring or autumn) for potentially lower accommodation rates and a more relaxed experience without the summer crowds.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Low-light conditions within the aquarium can be challenging, so a camera with good low-light performance or a smartphone with advanced camera features will be beneficial. The Dinosaur World also provides unique, larger-than-life subjects for your lens.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Marine Life
Interactive elements and feeding times add an extra layer of engagement. Watching the penguins waddle and play, or the otters frolic, provides delightful moments for all ages. The aquarium aims to educate visitors about the importance of marine conservation and the delicate balance of ocean ecosystems.
For those interested in a broader experience, the aquarium also includes exhibits on reptiles and even dinosaurs, making it a comprehensive destination for animal and history enthusiasts alike. The 'Blue Pavilion' is often mentioned as a particularly impressive section.
Family Fun Beyond the Tanks
Beyond the dinosaurs, the penguins and otters are consistently cited as favorites, their playful antics providing endless entertainment. The aquarium's layout and diverse exhibits are designed to keep children engaged throughout the visit.
While the aquarium is a great indoor activity, be mindful of the summer heat. Finding shaded spots for breaks or picnics can be a challenge, so planning ahead or visiting during cooler months is advisable for families.
Planning Your Visit: Tickets and Timing
When considering the best time to visit, weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. Visiting during the shoulder seasons, like spring or autumn, offers pleasant weather and fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months. If you must visit in summer, arriving early in the morning can help you beat the heat and the biggest crowds.
Be aware of the aquarium's operating hours, as they can change seasonally. Checking the official website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and last entry is essential for a smooth visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit